Things to do in San Luis Obispo

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Visit San Luis Obispo

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Where to stay

San Luis Obispo travel guide

Morro Bay featuring mountains and a bay or harbour

Morro Strand State Beach featuring general coastal views, kite surfing and waves

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What to do in San Luis Obispo

Popular places to visit

Avila Hot Springs

4.5/5(2 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Avila Hot Springs and enjoy the beautiful sunsets during your trip to San Luis Obispo. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

4.5/5(4 reviews)

Find out about the history of San Luis Obispo with a stop at Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

San Luis Obispo which includes outdoor art

Bubblegum Alley

3.5/5(7 reviews)

Colorful pieces of chewed gum, some of which have been turned into art pieces, decorate the walls of this narrow lane.

Laguna Lake Park

After visiting Laguna Lake Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Luis Obispo. Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Santa Rosa Park

After visiting Santa Rosa Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Luis Obispo. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Cerro San Luis Obispo

Explore the great outdoors at Cerro San Luis Obispo and enjoy the beautiful sunsets during your trip to San Luis Obispo. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and shops in this family-friendly area.

San Luis Obispo Children's Museum

Enjoy a trip to San Luis Obispo Children's Museum and popular activities such as cycling in San Luis Obispo. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

Irish Hills Natural Reserve

Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Irish Hills Natural Reserve, a lovely green space in San Luis Obispo. Stroll along the seaside in this family-friendly area or seek out the cycling trails.

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

3.5/5(3 reviews)

Enjoy the student vibe at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo during your visit to San Luis Obispo. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

Areas of San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo featuring general coastal views

Downtown San Luis Obispo

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Downtown San Luis Obispo, Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa are top sights worth seeing.

Railroad District

Railroad District might not have many top sights, but Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Fremont Theater are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Old Town Historic District

While Old Town Historic District may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Fremont Theater.

Foothill

While there might not be top attractions in Foothill, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Fremont Theater and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

Lower Higuera

While Lower Higuera isn't home to many top sights, Madonna Plaza Shopping Center and Downtown SLO Farmers' Market are some notable places to visit nearby.

Laguna

When in Laguna, you can plan a visit to Irish Hills Natural Reserve and Madonna Plaza Shopping Center, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Frequently asked questions

Is San Luis Obispo worth visiting?

From shopping to outdoor pursuits and history, there are loads of fun things to do in San Luis Obispo. Remember to experience the area's mix of cool attractions, local charm and culture.

How do I spend a day in San Luis Obispo?

Start your day with a visit to Avila Hot Springs and Avila Beach. Then, check out other areas of San Luis Obispo for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in San Luis Obispo?

Avila Hot Springs is one of the top tourist attractions in San Luis Obispo and should be high on every to-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in San Luis Obispo?

Three days will give you plenty of time to check out many city sights, like Edna Valley Vineyard, Performing Arts Centre and Bishop Peak Trail. The average stay in San Luis Obispo is two days. If you have the urge to extend your adventure, Pismo Beach isn't far away.

Is San Luis Obispo a walkable city?

It depends on what you'd like to do and see in San Luis Obispo. Several key sights, like Performing Arts Centre and Bishop Peak Trail, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of San Luis Obispo's neighbourhoods, Downtown San Luis Obispo is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Old Town Historic District is 0.32 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in San Luis Obispo with kids?

If you're looking for activities and attractions for all the family, here are some excellent ideas for what to do in San Luis Obispo with kids.

What to do in San Luis Obispo for adults?

Edna Valley Vineyard and Wolff Vineyards are just two of the things to do in San Luis Obispo. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.

Are there free things to do in San Luis Obispo?

From checking out parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in San Luis Obispo. If you need new ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. History Centre of San Luis Obispo County is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.